ASKO 1805FI (01) PDF MANUAL

To get the best performance from your dishwasher, read all operating instructions before using it for the first time.

• Read through the use and care guide before attempting to use your new dishwasher.
• Read the “Washing Special Items” section before washing any porcelain or china that has “on-glaze” decoration, crystal glassware, or items of wood or plastic.
• Make sure the door is properly balanced. To do this, open it a little and release it. It should stay where you released it. If it doesn’t, consult the Installation Instructions or contact your installer.
• Call your local water company to learn the water hardness in your area. You’ll need to know this to determine how much detergent and rinse aid to use.

• This manual does not cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur. Use common sense and caution when installing, operating, and maintaining any appliance.
• Read all instructions before using the dishwasher.
• Dishwashers must be electrically grounded. Read the Installation Instructions for details.
• Use the dishwasher only for its intended purpose.
• Use only automatic dishwasher detergents and rinse agents.
• To reduce the risk of injury, keep detergents and rinse aids out of the reach of children.
• Do not load sharp items near the door; you could damage the door seal.
• Place sharp knives in the silverware basket with the sharp ends down to avoid the risk of cut-type injuries. Load all long and sharp items in the knife/utensil basket if available, or with pointed ends facing the back.
• Do not wash plastic items unless they are marked “dishwasher safe” or the equivalent. Check manufacturer’s recommendations for unmarked items. Non-dishwasher safe items could deform, melt, or create a fire hazard.
• Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after use.
• Do not operate the dishwasher unless all enclosure panels (guard plate, access panel, toe kick, etc.) are properly in place.
• Do not tamper with controls by removing or changing them.
• Do not abuse, sit on, or stand on the dishwasher door or baskets.
• To reduce the risk of injury, do not allow children to play in or on a dishwasher.
• Hydrogen gas may be produced in a hot water system unused for two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. If the system hasn’t been used for two weeks, turn on all hot water faucets and let water flow for several minutes before using the dishwasher. Do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.
• When removing an old dishwasher, remove the door to the washing compartment.
• Do not store or use combustible materials, gasoline, or other flammable vapors and liquids near this or any other appliance.
• Disconnect electrical power before servicing.
• Repairs should be done by a qualified technician.

• Dishwasher detergents and rinse aids are corrosive; keep them out of reach of children.
• If a child swallows detergent or rinse aid, give plenty to drink immediately (one or two glasses of milk or water). Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical advice immediately: 1-800-POISON1.
• Always close the door and start the dishwasher immediately after adding detergent.
• Keep small children away from the machine when it is open, as detergent residue may be inside.
• If detergent gets in someone’s eyes, rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
• Do not allow children to use or play in or on the dishwasher.
• Load long and sharp items in the knife/utensil basket or with pointed ends facing the back. Load sharp items in the silverware basket with pointed ends down.
• Engage the child safety lock if your model has one.

The child safety lock is located to the left of the door handle.
To activate: Use a screwdriver to turn the screw slot to a horizontal position.
To reset: Turn the screw slot back to its vertical position.
To open the door when locked: Slide the lever (to the left of the door latch) toward the left and hold it as you lift the latch.

No, thanks to the Super Cleaning System™, it’s not necessary to rinse dishes if you plan to start the dishwasher right away. The system drains the prewash water and starts the main wash with clean water. However, you do need to scrape off large particles of food before loading.

After scraping off large food particles, place glasses, cups, saucers, bowls, and small plates in the upper basket. Load stemware with the stem fitted inside one of the grooved tines on the stemware rack (Note: Stemware rack not on Model 1375). Use the fold-down cup shelf on the right side for additional cups and small bowls. Some models (1375, 1385, 1485, & 1595) have a knife stop below the cup shelf for long utensils and knives; load sharp items carefully to avoid cutting the rack coating.

Whenever possible, load knives and long utensils in the knife/utensil basket located above the upper basket. To avoid injury, always load items with sharp ends pointed toward the back of the dishwasher. Be careful not to cut the rack coating when loading sharp items.

Load larger items like dinner plates, pots, pans, serving dishes, and casseroles in the lower basket. Ensure dishware faces downward or toward the center. On models with a removable plate rack, you can lift it out to create space for large items like pots and pans.

The silverware basket has 17 compartments to help keep silverware separated. Load silverware with handles down and spread it out to avoid nesting. For safety, load knives with handles up. Avoid placing silverware of different materials (e.g., silver and stainless steel) in the same compartment to prevent discoloration. Use the Small Items Containment Lid in the middle to hold small, lightweight items (like teaspoon handles) or keep silverware separated; snap it down over the compartments to its left or right. Try to avoid nesting spoons and forks when loading.

Measure and place detergent for the main wash into the large detergent compartment. Detergent for the prewash goes into the small compartment to the right. Use about half the amount of detergent for the prewash as you use for the main wash. The total amount for main wash and prewash combined should not exceed three tablespoons. Always add detergent just before starting the dishwasher to prevent it from getting damp and not dissolving properly.
Warning: Dishwasher detergent is corrosive! Keep it out of reach of children.

Use only unscented, granular automatic dishwashing detergent. Using the wrong type (like liquid or handwashing detergent) could cause flooding or damage. Do not use detergent that is wet, clumped, or past its expiration date.

Generally, one tablespoon is enough for a normal load. However, the amount needed varies with water hardness and soil level. Harder water and heavier soil require more detergent. Contact your local water utility to find your water hardness. Adjust the amount by small increments until you find the right amount for your conditions.

RECOMMENDED DETERGENT AMOUNTS BASED ON WATER HARDNESS

WATER HARDNESS	DETERGENT AMOUNTS
Soft (0-3 grains per gallon)	Prewash: 1 teaspoon Main wash: 1 to 1-1/2 tablespoons
Medium (4-8 grains per gallon)	Prewash: 1 teaspoon Main wash: 1 to 2 tablespoons
Hard (9+ grains*)	Prewash: 1 teaspoon Main wash: 2 to 3 tablespoons

* 12 grains and higher is extremely hard. Detergent alone may not be enough; consider a water softener. In areas with extremely hard water (9+), washing at lower temperatures might prevent hard water deposits. If using a detergent with less than 8.7% phosphorous content in hard water, you may need more detergent or switch to one with higher phosphorous content.

NOTE: Do not add prewash detergent for the Quick or Light wash programs.

A white or gray film can develop in hard water areas.
To remove film from the machine: Put two tablespoons of citric acid in the detergent compartment and run a Normal program. Repeat if necessary in extremely hard water areas.
To remove hard water spots from dishes:

1. Run dishes through a normal wash program.
2. Remove all metal dishware (cutlery, pans, etc.).
3. Do not add detergent.
4. Pour two cups of vinegar into a bowl and set it face up on the bottom rack.
5. Run the dishes through a Normal wash program.

If vinegar doesn’t work, try the same process using 1/4 cup of citric acid crystals (available at most drug stores) instead.

ASKO dishwashers use liquid rinse aids to prevent spots/streaks and improve drying. The dispenser is inside the door, next to the detergent dispenser.
To fill:

1. Turn the cap to the “open” (left) arrow and lift it out.
2. Pour liquid rinse aid into the dispenser until the level indicator turns completely black (about four ounces). Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause oversudsing. Wipe up spills with a damp cloth.
3. Replace the cap by aligning it with the “open” arrow and turning it to the closed (right) arrow.

Note: If you have soft water, rinse aid might cause a white film; you may not need it.

The dispenser has six settings (1-6). Start with setting “1”. If you have spots or poor drying, increase the amount by removing the dispenser lid and rotating the adjustment dial to the next higher number (e.g., “2”). Continue adjusting one number at a time until dishes are spot-free. Too much rinse aid can cause lather, foaming, cloudiness, or streaks. If your water is very soft, you might dilute the rinse aid with an equal amount of water or not use it at all.

Check the Rinse Aid Level Indicator (the black dot) next to the cap. As the rinse aid level decreases, the size of the black dot shrinks. Refill when the indicator shows 1/4 full to avoid spotting.

• Full
• 3/4 full
• 1/2 full
• 1/4 full – Should refill to eliminate spotting
• Empty

Some models (1805, 1805FI, 1805 HNDL, 1885, 1895) also have an indicator light on the control panel that lights up when the dispenser is almost empty. There might be a delay before the light goes out after refilling.

The interior is made of electro-polished surgical quality stainless steel, which resists dirt and bacteria buildup. If you have especially hard water, lime deposits might form. To remove them, put two tablespoons of citric acid in the detergent compartment and run a Normal program. Repeat if necessary.

The filtering system is inside the tub and consists of three parts:

• Main filter: Food and soil particles trapped here are pulverized by a jet on the lower spray arm and washed down the drain.
• Coarse filter: Traps larger items (like bone or glass) that could clog the drain. To remove items, gently squeeze the tabs on top and lift the filter out.
• Fine filter: Holds soil and food residue in the sump area, preventing it from redepositing on dishes during the cycle.

Warning: Never run the dishwasher without the filters in place.

In hard water areas, chemical buildup may require cleaning the filters every 12-18 months.

1. Remove the coarse filter by squeezing the tabs and lifting it out.
2. Unscrew the fine filter and lift it and the main filter out together.
3. Wash all three filters gently in hot, soapy water.
4. Rinse them thoroughly and replace them.

Warning: Never run the dishwasher without the filters in place.

Use only a soft, warm, damp rag to clean the edge around the door. Do not use any spray cleaner to avoid water penetration into the door lock and electrical components.
Warning: Never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on the outer surfaces as they will scratch the finish. Some paper towels can also scratch or leave marks on stainless steel. Never use a spray cleaner on the door panel.

Jets and bearings can become clogged with hard water chemicals.

1. To remove the spray arms, screw off the nut and take off the washer on top of the spray arm, then lift off the arm.
2. Wash the spray arms in warm, soapy water.
3. Use a soft brush to clean the jets.
4. Rinse thoroughly and replace.

The pump automatically reverses to eject most items. If you need to remove an obstacle:

1. Turn off the power to the dishwasher.
2. Remove the filters (Coarse, Fine, Main).
3. Lift out the small black insert from the sump area. (You might want to remove any standing water first.)
4. Look into the sump area for the obstruction.
5. Scoop out any item found.
6. Replace the black insert before putting the filters back in.

Warning: Never run the dishwasher without the filters in place.

Your dishwasher has a device that automatically shuts off the inlet valve and starts the drain pump if the water level rises above normal. If this happens, turn off the water at the main supply and call for service. If there is water in the base pan due to an overfill or leak, it must be removed before the dishwasher will start.
On electronic models (1485, 1595, 1805, 1885, 1895), if an overfill is detected, all indicator lights on the control panel will flash. The LED window (on models 1485, 1595, 1885, 1895) will also display a fault code (F2).

• If washing dishes right away, just scrape off large particles instead of pre-rinsing.
• Wash only full loads.
• Use the Pan program only for heavily soiled dishes.
• Don’t use the Temp boost for lightly soiled dishes.
• Avoid using Heat dry. You can speed up drying by opening the door slightly after the cycle to release moist air.

• Improper Loading: Ensure soiled surfaces face downward or toward the center. Avoid stacking items too closely, allowing water to reach all surfaces.
• Wrong Program: Use the appropriate program setting for the soil level.
• Spray Arm Obstruction: Check if an item is blocking the spray arm rotation. Manually turn the arms with baskets loaded to ensure free movement.
• Old/Improper Detergent: Use fresh detergent stored tightly in a cool, dry place. Add detergent just before starting. If using Delay start, ensure the dispenser is dry first.
• Inferior Detergent: Try a different brand.
• Rinse Aid Empty: Ensure the rinse aid dispenser is filled.
• Hard Water: Try adding more detergent and increasing the rinse aid amount.
• Clogged Spray Arm Jets: Check and clean the spray arm jets if necessary.

• Heat Dry Option: Select the Heat Dry option if available and desired.
• Air Dry: If not using Heat Dry, open the door slightly after the cycle finishes to let warm, humid air escape, speeding up drying.
• Rinse Aid: Ensure the dispenser is filled and set to the proper amount.
• Overloading/Nesting: Do not overload the dishwasher. Avoid nesting items.
• Loading Concave Items: Tilt items with concave bottoms so water can run off.
• Unloading Order: Unload the bottom basket first to prevent water from the top rack spilling onto lower dishes.
• Water Temperature: Dishes washed in hotter water dry faster.
• Plastics: Certain plastics may require towel drying.

• Check manufacturer’s instructions. Wash only items marked “dishwasher safe.”
• Load dishwasher-safe items in the top basket, away from the heating element.
• Rinse items soiled with high-acid foods (like tomatoes) if not washing immediately, as they can cause discoloration.
• Plastic items often dry poorly and may need towel drying.

• Load dishes securely so they won’t fall over or strike each other.
• Place glasses between tines, not straddling them.
• Move baskets in and out slowly.
• Ensure tall items don’t hit the spray arms.
• Make sure tall glasses and stemware clear the top of the tub when pushing the basket in.
• Load delicate items in the top basket.
• Do not overload the dishwasher.
• Do not jam glasses together.

• Iron/Manganese in Water: Can cause yellow or brown marks. As a temporary solution, use 1 tsp to 1 tbsp of citric acid crystals instead of prewash detergent. Consider installing a water filtering system for a permanent solution.
• Coffee/Tea Stains: Usually require handwashing in a solution of 1/2 cup bleach and 1 quart water. (Do not use on sterling silver or silver plate). Rinse items thoroughly before placing in the dishwasher to remove bleach residue.
• See also “Washing Special Items” for material-specific information.

Etching is a cloudy film on glassware that cannot be removed. It’s damage to the glass itself. To prevent etching:

• Use less detergent, especially if you have soft water.
• Use a good quality dishwasher detergent.
• Do not overload the machine; allow water to circulate freely.
• Fill the rinse aid dispenser (unless you have very soft water and don’t need rinse aid).
• Use a lower water temperature setting.
• Do not use the Heat Dry option.
• Do not pre-rinse dishes; just scrape off large food particles.

• Items loaded too close might block the dispenser cover from opening.
• The dispenser doesn’t open during the Rinse program.
• Detergent is old, caked, or damp. Use fresh detergent stored properly. Throw away old/caked detergent.
• Detergent was added too early and got damp. Add it just before starting.
• If using Delay start, ensure the dispenser is dry before adding detergent.
• The main wash detergent compartment only opens during main wash programs, not the Rinse program.

This usually means items are not loaded properly or something has fallen. Ensure dishes are secure and nothing has fallen between basket tines. Place small items in the small items containment lid on the silverware basket and close the lid.

• Using the wrong detergent (e.g., liquid or hand soap) causes oversudsing and leakage. Use only granular automatic dishwasher detergent.
• Using old or improper amounts of detergent can contribute. Use fresh detergent in the correct amount for your water hardness.
• Overfilling the rinse aid dispenser can cause oversudsing and overflow. Wipe up spills.
• Ensure the dishwasher is level (see installation instructions).

If the incoming water temperature is below 120°F (49°C), the dishwasher runs longer because it heats the water to the proper temperature for the selected program. Raising your home’s water heater setting might shorten cycle times. If this doesn’t help, call the ASKO Advisory Center (972-238-0794).

• Ensure the cycle was complete before opening the door. Allow it to finish if needed.
• Some water remaining in the sump area near the drain is normal.
• If an air gap is required by plumbing code, ensure it isn’t blocked or plugged.
• If connected to a garbage disposer, ensure the disposer is empty.
• Check the garbage disposer and trap for blockage if water backs up into the sink.
• Check the dishwasher filters and drain area for blockage.
• Check the drain hose for kinks.
• You may need to adjust the drain time for long drain lines or air gaps (Call the Advisory Center).

• Ensure the water supply is turned on.
• Ensure the dishwasher is turned on and the door is securely closed.
• Check the water feed line for crimps.
• Low water pressure might require adjusting the water inlet time (Call the Advisory Center).
• The overfill protection system may have activated. It shuts off fill and turns on the drain pump. (See “Overfill Protection”). Water may need to be removed from the base pan.

• Ensure the dishwasher is turned on and the door is securely closed.
• Make sure the Delay start option is not turned on.
• Check that the water supply is connected properly and turned on.
• Ensure the power cord is properly plugged into the wall socket.
• Check your home’s fuse box for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker.

Most common dishware is safe. If in doubt, check with the manufacturer or wash one item a few times and compare. You are solely responsible for what you wash in your dishwasher. See the table below for specific materials:

Material	Dishwasher Safe	Information and Recommendations
Aluminum	Yes, with caution	Anodized aluminum may fade or darken. Can be cleaned with steel wool. Load so it doesn’t touch other dishes to prevent gray/black marks (remove with nonabrasive cleaner).
Cast Iron	No	Seasoning is lost, iron rusts. Hand wash and dry immediately.
China	Yes, with caution	Plain or under-glaze decorated china is usually safe. Arrange so items don’t touch. Over-glaze patterns or gold leaf may fade; check manufacturer or test wash one piece. Use Quick program, low temperature setting.
Copper	Yes, with caution	Do not wash with silver/silver plate (discolors silver). Do not let copper touch stainless steel.
Crystal	No/Yes	Antiques/delicate china: No. Some lead crystal may etch; check manufacturer. If washing lead crystal: Use low temperature setting, load securely so items won’t knock against each other.
Dirilyte	No	Gold-colored flatware can become discolored.
Disposable plastic items	No	Cannot withstand machine washing.
Flatware with bonded handles	No	Certain adhesives may loosen.
Glass	Yes	Exception: Milk glass may turn yellow.
Knives	No	Sharp knives may dull in very hot water or contact with other items. Wood handles may warp/crack/loosen. Plastic handles may discolor. Check manufacturer’s instructions.
Lead crystal	No	Certain types may etch if machine washed.
Non-dishware items	No	Never wash items like electronic air cleaners, filters, paint brushes, etc. Could damage the dishwasher.
Non-stick coatings	Yes	If marked “Dishwasher Safe.” After washing, wipe coating with vegetable oil to maintain quality.
Pewter	No	Will tarnish.
Plastic	Yes	If labeled “Dishwasher Safe.” Check manufacturer otherwise. Always load in top basket. Do not use Heat dry. Do not wash disposable plastic items.
Silver and Silver plate	Yes, with caution	Rinse if not washing immediately (salty/acidic foods stain). Detergent can cause black marks (hard to remove). Do not put in same basket with stainless steel (contact damages silver). Do not wash with copper (causes brown film). Adhesives on hollow-handled knives may loosen.
Stainless Steel	Yes, with caution	Rinse if not washing immediately (salty/acidic foods stain). Detergent can cause black marks (hard to remove). Do not mix different types of stainless steel in the same load. Do not put in same basket with silver/silver plate.
Tin	No	Will rust.
Wood	No	Unless marked “Dishwasher Safe.” Wood can warp, crack, or lose shape.